Tuesday, May 16 2006

THE Sanatan Dharma Maha Sabha’s opposition to the upcoming visit of televangelist Benny Hinn has prompted another Christian group to rally support for the US preacher.

The Association of Independent Ministers (AIM) yesterday wrote to Prime Minister Patrick Manning expressing full support and announcing its members will participate in Hinn’s TT visit.

AIM General Secretary Eric St Cyr said, “freedom of conscience and freedom of worship, as you well know, are guaranteed in our Constitution and are fundamental rights to which all citizens are equally entitled.”

In a statement copied to the media, St Cyr said Hinn’s ministry will bring blessings to TT and wanted the PM and country to have no doubt about AIM’s support for Pastor Hinn.

“We in no way condone insulting and offensive behaviour or action that sets out deliberately to violate the sensibilities of fellow citizens.”

AIM wrote to the PM in response to Sat Maharaj, secretary general of the Maha Sabha’s writing Manning asking him to intervene to stop Hinn’s visit and public meetings which are scheduled from May 19-21 at the Queen’s Park Savannah.

Last week the Association of Independent Ministers issued a statement supporting Hinn, and describing him as “a distinguished evangelist of international repute.”